CIDC Journalism Fellowships

The Bulgaria International Journalism Fellowship (BIJF) is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at telling stories of Bulgaria’s democratic journey to a global audience. A key objective is to bring more international attention to Bulgaria’s democracy – and the global stakes in its potential – through the work of independent journalists. Our program will fund and deploy up to three independent journalists as Senior Fellows working full time, as well as fund a series of individual projects, to produce great news, features and investigative articles in English to be pitched to major international publications. Both the Fellows and the individual projects will be supported by a cadre of students from AUBG’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communications as BIJF Student Fellows. The BIJF will be overseen by Editorial Director Dean Starkman, an AUBG Non-Resident Distinguished Fellow.

Named after Christo Grozev, world-renowned investigative journalist and AUBG alum, this fellowship program aims to support early to mid-career journalists who are committed to fearless and ethical journalism. Our program includes in-person immersion at AUBG, mentorship from seasoned investigative journalists, and opportunities for cross-border collaboration. You will also have access to resources and support to undertake significant investigative projects that uphold democratic principles and promote human rights.